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Saddle Girth – How tight is too tight?

Are you guilty of doing up your horse’s girth as tight as you can in the belief it gives your saddle and you the best security? Well Australian researchers have found that a girth done up too tightly can have a negative effect on your horse’s performance.

The usual tension applied to a saddle girth to keep a saddle on a Thoroughbred racehorse is around 13kg but researchers found anything over 10kg could alter the horses performance.

Although they still have to work out why, it’s thought that it may force the horse to adopt different breathing patterns involving a greater use of the diaphragm which in turn affects performance. Alternatively, the soft tissue and fluid in the thoracic wall (the part between the neck and abdomen, enclosed by the ribs) could be displaced during exercise.

As yet, no-one knows for sure. Some horses don’t seem particularly affected by girth tightness but others do. Saddle placement also played a part, so more research is needed. Whatever the effects of your saddle girth just make sure you don’t leave your girth too loose.

The Equestrian Oscars

Posted by debbie | Filed under Equestrian News, Featured

FEI - The International Federation of Equestrian Sport has launched The Equestrian Oscars.

The FEI has said the awards will...  "celebrate the equestrian community and pay tribute to heroes in the sport."

FEI President HRH Princess Haya, said:

"These awards will not only recognise the achievements and success of individuals and highlight the stars of today and tomorrow but they will also bring together all those involved in the sport around the world."

FEI - Federation Equestrian InternationalAn international judging panel chaired by Princess Haya will select the winners.

The Equestrian Oscars will be presented to the winners at the FEI gala dinner in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 21 November 2009.

The five categories are:

  • Athlete of the Year — to a rider, driver or vaulter who has shown exceptional sportsmanship and prowess
  • Rising Star — to a promising rider between the ages of 14-21. Sponsored by HSBC
  • Development — for a development project, individual or organisation that has contributed most to the sport. Sponsored by Alltech.
  • Against All Odds — to celebrate an outstanding disabled rider of any age
  • Groom of the Year — the unsung hero behind the scenes

Enter your nomination at www.feiawards.org. The Deadline for entries is 17th October 2009.

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No Comments » | September 10th, 2009

Clearer Doping and Medication rules from the FEI?

Posted by admin | Filed under Equestrian News, Featured

The biggest ever shake up of horse sport has been unveiled by the FEI.

An independent review of anti-doping and testing procedures as well as vastly increased stable security at competition venues are key points being looked at in a series of recommendations to combat doping in horse sport.

The recommendations were announced by Lord Stevens, the former chief of the Metropoliton Police, who was appointed by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) in May to investigate doping practices in equestrian sport.

Lord Steven's appointment followed the six positive dope test at last year's Olympics and the sacking of the entire German equestrian team.

The FEI are hoping the recommendations will stamp out doping and protect riders and their horses.

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No Comments » | September 3rd, 2009